Student Question

Does Gatsby give Daisy a nickname in The Great Gatsby?

Quick answer:

Gatsby does not give Daisy a nickname, but Nick does. After realizing the unique quality of her voice, Nick refers to Daisy as "the golden girl," highlighting her wealth, status, and untouchable nature.

Expert Answers

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Gatsby doesn't give Daisy a nickname, but Nick does.  When Gatsby, Nick, and Jordan are all over at Tom and Daisy's house on that very hot day, just before they decide to go to New York City, Tom realizes that Gatsby and Daisy are having an affair.  When Tom leaves the room, Nick comments on Daisy's voice and how careless and unsubtle it is; Gatsby declares that her voice is "full of money."  And suddenly, Nick has this epiphany about Daisy: he realizes what that sound in her voice is.  Her charm, her sparkle, it all comes from the sound of money "jingl[ing]" in her voice.  Her wealth affects her tone; her status makes her voice sound different from everyone else's.  She is singular.  In fact, he describes her as "High in a white palace the king's daughter, the golden girl..."  When he seems to nickname her "the golden girl," Nick highlights her status and superiority more than anything else.  She is untouchable, protected, perfect.

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